Type of knot, bend or hitch - Percentage of retained strength:
I suggest you use the lower emboldened figure in strength calculationsAlpine Butterfly or Lineman's Loop: 65 -75%
Bowline: 65 - 75 %
Bowline on a Bight: 65 - 70 %
Anchor Bend
- Over 5/8" dia. ring: 55 - 65 %
- Over 4" dia. post: 75 - 85 %
Clove Hitch: 60 - 70%
Two half hitches
- Over 5/8" dia. ring: 60 - 70* %
- Over 4" dia. post: 65 - 75* %
Timber Hitch: 60 - 70 %
Square (Reef) Knot: 45 - 60* %
Sheet Bend: 45 - 60* %
Fisherman's Knot: 55 - 65 %
Carrick Bend: 55 - 60 %
Smaller sizes (particularly nylon) are liable to slip without breaking.
Eye Splice (Not a knot): 80 - 95 %
Strength of Knots - Cruisers & Sailing Forums
